Over 40 Men Accuse Mike Jeffries of Assault, Drugging and Exploitation
More than 40 men have now accused former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries of sexual assault, rape, or drugging, according to legal representatives speaking to the BBC.
Jeffries, previously charged with sex trafficking, is facing multiple civil lawsuits alleging he used modelling opportunities as a front to exploit young men. The claims span from the 1990s, when Jeffries began his tenure at A&F, and now include company employees as well as former models.
A&F itself is also being sued for negligence, with accusations that the company knowingly allowed Jeffries and his British partner, Matthew Smith, to carry out serious sexual crimes. While the company has previously stated it was “appalled” by the allegations, it has not issued further comment.
Among the latest allegations, some men say they were already employed by A&F when they were assaulted, raising concerns about the company’s responsibility to protect staff. Jeffries led the company between 1992 and 2014, overseeing its controversial branding strategies.
Now 80, Jeffries remains under house arrest, having pleaded not guilty to charges of running a global sex trafficking operation with Smith, 61, and their associate, James Jacobson, 72. Prosecutors claim they orchestrated a highly organised scheme targeting young men across the US, Europe, and North Africa. If convicted, they face life sentences.
The lawsuits have gained momentum since a BBC investigation in 2023 uncovered the alleged abuse. Civil lawyer Brad Edwards, representing 26 claimants, suggested that the total number of victims could exceed 100. Attorney Jared Scotto, who also represents former A&F employees among his clients, described a pattern of coercion and exploitation stretching back to 1992.
Separate lawsuits in New York allege Jeffries raped men after luring them with the promise of modelling jobs. Victims say they were pressured into taking illegal substances, subjected to degrading sexual acts, and, in some cases, forced to sign non-disclosure agreements under duress.
Lawyers representing victims argue that the power imbalance was extreme, allowing Jeffries and Smith to operate with impunity while A&F prioritised profits over accountability. Legal proceedings continue, with further potential claimants expected to come forward.
